en.Wedoany.com Reported - The policy adjustment of the E-Rate program by the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is sparking strong opposition from the library community and some lawmakers. The subsidy program, valued at $2.4 billion, aims to provide broadband access to schools and libraries.
Massachusetts Democratic Senator Ed Markey criticized the FCC's vote on Thursday to restart key aspects of the E-Rate policy in an interview with Broadband Breakfast. Markey, considered the original architect of the E-Rate program created under the Telecommunications Act of 1996, stated in a statement that this vote is a deeply concerning step to weaken E-Rate, undermining educational equity, harming economic competitiveness, and potentially overturning three decades of established law.
Christine Morris, Digital Services Manager at the Ohio Public Library Information Network (OPLIN), told Broadband Breakfast that she is particularly concerned about a proposal in an FCC-initiated inquiry that could require libraries to independently create and manage federal accounts with the Universal Service Administrative Co. (USAC). The inquiry asks whether the E-Rate program should be phased out, reduced, or limited to specific areas, and proposes strengthening oversight of consulting firms by requiring annual disclosures and certifications, as well as requiring applicants and service providers to collect and submit additional information.
Morris stated that the current system, which centralizes application processing and broadband delivery through the state-funded IT agency Ohio Academic Resources Network (OARNet), alleviates the burden on local libraries. Many small libraries lack the staff, funding, or expertise needed to independently operate the program. She believes the FCC's proposal will not make things easier for anyone.
Morris also opposes the FCC's reexamination of the guidance for the 2000 Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA). She advocates maintaining the current interpretation, allowing communities to set internet safety standards based on local needs. OPLIN helps libraries comply with CIPA requirements, avoiding direct management of the federal system.
Sherry Scheline, Director of the Donnelly Public Library in Idaho, highlighted the financial pressure on small systems, noting that next year's network equipment costs are approximately $10,000, about one-eighth of the $80,000 annual budget. She stated that 83% of US libraries serve small or rural communities and are critical access points for telemedicine, job searches, and online learning.
Morris believes the FCC's inquiry reflects a broader policy debate on whether federal broadband programs have achieved their goals or still need expansion, especially in the Artificial Intelligence era with growing connectivity demands. The American Library Association (ALA) has launched the "Save Our E-Rate" campaign, urging libraries, schools, and advocates to submit comments during the rulemaking process.
In recent months, the FCC has taken other actions affecting the program. In April 2026, the FCC approved new rules that added additional administrative burdens for schools and libraries to obtain E-Rate funds. In September 2025, the FCC repealed rules allowing schools and libraries to use E-Rate funds to lend Wi-Fi hotspots.
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